Kiwanis pancake breakfast makes triumphant return

Though a cherished tradition, the Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key's pancake fundraiser fell off in recent years. This year, organizers successfully brought back the fundraiser, attracting more breakfast-goers than anticipated.

The pancake breakfast took place on Saturday at The Lazy Lobster, shifting from its previous location at St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church.

Restaurant owner and Kiwanis Club President Michael Garey said he was happy to host the fundraiser. He hoped they could secure 200 attendees, and the club nearly surpassed that with reservations alone, welcoming plenty more walk-ins.

"We're going to have well over 300 people here today," he anticipated as they breakfast drew to a close.

The club recently donated $50,000 to the Children's Guardian Fund in Sarasota, and Garey said the funds raised this week will similarly go toward supporting area charities.

"This used to be an annual tradition at the heart and soul of what we do, but we haven't had it since Covid," he said. 

Garey noted several staff members donated their time to help, but the Kiwanians who turned out were doing the work.

The table setting for every guest created a special touch. The placemats contained a tribute to beloved club members who passed away last year: Ed Krepela, Cash Register, Jack Black and John Wild.

Garey praised Register for his dedication to facilitating the breakfast in previous years as "the heart of our pancake breakfast crew."

"He was always so involved in everything we did, but especially the pancake breakfast," he said.

In the wake of his passing, it was motivation to bring back the fundraiser. Garey thanked everyone who came to support its return in heartening numbers, facilitating even more ambitious future projects.

"It's a blessing to our club and great exposure for Kiwanis and what we do on the island," he said. "In the last three years, we've given over a quarter of a million dollars to support kids. It's a great community event, and I'm glad it's back."

Commissioner Gary Coffin took the opportunity to remind community members the club welcomes new members.

"Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all the contributions and patience," he said to attendees.